Jeffrey Dean Morgan Reveals 'The Walking Dead' Has 'Never Been About Zombies'
3 days ago - Entertainment
Jeffrey Dean Morgan, the talented actor behind the iconic character Negan in 'The Walking Dead,' has been a part of the franchise for an impressive 10 years. As he prepares to mark this milestone, Morgan sat down to discuss his journey with the series, his experiences, and what the future holds.
A Decade of Negan: Reflections on a Character's Evolution
Morgan's introduction to 'The Walking Dead' in Season 6 was nothing short of explosive. His portrayal of Negan, the charismatic and intimidating leader, left an indelible mark on the show. Initially, the actor thought he would be a part of the series for just four years. However, the creative team's ability to continually entice him with fresh angles and storylines kept him engaged. Over time, Morgan has come to feel like a veteran of the franchise, having "earned his stripes." He reflects on the physical and mental challenges of playing Negan, acknowledging that it's not an easy role to maintain. Despite these challenges, Morgan remains committed to the character.
The Significance of Lucille: A Symbol of Negan's Inner Conflict
One of the most iconic aspects of Negan's character is his beloved baseball bat, Lucille. Wrapped in barbed wire, Lucille has become synonymous with Negan's brutal yet fascinating persona. Morgan reveals that having Lucille back in his hands was a significant moment for him, both as an actor and as Negan. The bat represents a complex mix of emotions for Negan, embodying a love hate relationship. Its return in 'The Walking Dead: Dead City' Season 2 signifies a resurgence of the performative Negan, stirring internal conflict within the character. Morgan humorously admits to being overly attached to Lucille, keeping it close throughout the day and not letting the prop guys take it away.
Exploring the Themes Beyond the Walkers
In discussing 'The Walking Dead' franchise, Morgan highlights that the series has always been about more than just the zombies or walkers. It's about humanity's struggle to coexist, the inability to work together, and the existential crises that come with survival. The show's creator, Robert Kirkman, originally designed the walkers to be slow and defeatable, emphasizing the need for human collaboration to overcome them. Morgan sees this theme as a crucial conversation starter, making 'The Walking Dead' more than just a horror series. 'The Walking Dead: Dead City,' in particular, delves into themes of greed, resource management, and the exclusionary nature of privilege, resonating with contemporary issues.
A New Chapter: 'The Walking Dead: Dead City' Season 2
As 'The Walking Dead: Dead City' Season 2 premieres, fans are treated to a continuation of Negan and Maggie's complex and tumultuous journey through a post apocalyptic Manhattan. The season explores the escalating war for control of the city, with Negan and Maggie finding themselves on opposite sides. Morgan praises the show's ability to assemble a talented cast and crew, referring to them as his "family." He values his role as an executive producer, particularly in making decisions about the team, as it allows him to shape the environment in which he spends a significant amount of time.
The Future of Negan: A Character's Legacy
As Morgan approaches the 10 year mark of playing Negan, he candidly shares that he's "getting dangerously close" to considering the end of his tenure with the character. While he's not ready to hang up Negan's leather jacket just yet, Morgan is aware of his own limitations and the physical demands of the role. The actor's reflections on his time with 'The Walking Dead' are tinged with a sense of gratitude and a deep affection for the "family" he's been a part of. As 'The Walking Dead: Dead City' continues, fans can expect more of Negan's compelling narrative, further exploring the intricacies of his character and the world he inhabits. With Lucille back in the picture, Negan's story is far from over, promising a captivating continuation of his journey.